At the welcome ceremony, the duke and duchess both exchanged Maori “hongi” greetings with well-wishers – pressing their nose and forehead together.

They were given Korowai cloaks, inspired by the Sussexes own coat of arms and featuring blue, gold, white and red silk.

The Duke of Sussex was presented with a tewhatewha – a Maori weapon featuring a point at one end and an axe at the other.

Image copyrightGetty ImagesImage captionMeghan receives a “hongi” greeting during the visitImage copyrightReutersImage captionThere was one for Prince Harry tooImage copyrightReuters, Getty ImagesImage captionThe duke’s tewhatewha gift features a point at one end and an axe at the other

The duke said: “One of the joys of our visit to New Zealand has been the opportunity to meet so many young New Zealanders who are devoting their talents and energy to making a difference.

“There are creative, gifted and caring Te Arawa Rangatahi [young people] here, who are using their talents to preserve and promote the Maori language, to support mental wellbeing, and to achieve in areas that will benefit their communities, and their country.”

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex then spent more than their allotted 30 minutes meeting the crowds outside.

Image copyrightReuters

There was also time to look at chicks at the National Kiwi Hatchery at Rainbow Springs.

Image copyrightReuters

Later, during their visit to the Redwoods Tree Walk, the couple met members of a mountain biking community.

Image copyrightGetty Images

The duke and duchess will return to Auckland before leaving for London on Thursday.

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